THERE is a certain charm to the small town of Yackandandah that keeps visitors returning year after year.

Like many towns in the area, the settlement of Yackandandah was not immune to the heady days of the Victorian gold rush when gold was discovered in the area in 1852.

The telegraph arrived in 1861 and in the 1890s came the railway and the local newspaper.

Today, Yackandandah has a vibrant community made up of hospitality, accommodation, artists, musicians, artisans, boutique stores, cafés and a natural bush wonderland a mere stone's throw away.

Pack yourself a picnic filled with local produce, wines and soft drinks and meander along the Lions Park Walk – an easy 20 minute walk which captures the beauty and history of Yackandandah perfectly.

Past the Stone Bridge and over the boardwalk at Commissioners Creek, you will find a replica Miner's Hut from the first gold rush era where you can spread out your picnic rug or set up your chairs and enjoy the sights and sounds around you.

If you love the natural surrounds flashing past as you manoeuvre your mountain bike between the trees, the Yack Tracks MTB Trailhead is for you.

Hiking and photographic opportunities abound for those who prefer a slower pace with the Baranduda Waterfall and Underground Hut a little further out of town.

Making your base in Yackandandah for the weekend or longer presents plenty of day trip opportunities to nearby towns like Beechworth, Stanley and Allans Flat so start your track to Yack this winter.